1:37th Armor

• Origins: The 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment ("1/37th Armor") was originally constituted as Company A, 37th Armored Regiment in July 1941 and activated at Fort Knox, Kentucky. • World War II Service: The unit fought in North Africa, Sicily, and Europe as part of the 4th Armored Division, earning distinction for its role in General Patton’s Third Army. • Nickname: 1/37th Armor is famously known as "Bandits," a moniker adopted for its aggressive and resourceful combat style. • Siege of Bastogne: During the Battle of the Bulge, elements of the battalion were among the first to break through German lines and relieve the besieged US forces in Bastogne. • Cold War Deployments: Throughout the Cold War, 1/37th Armor was stationed in Germany as part of NATO forces, serving as a frontline deterrent against Soviet aggression. • Operation Desert Storm: The battalion was deployed to the Middle East in 1991, participating in the liberation of Kuwait. It was among the first units to lead the breach into Iraqi defenses. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: In 2003, 1/37th Armor spearheaded the advance into Baghdad, famously leading the "Thunder Run" into the city and playing a pivotal role in toppling Saddam Hussein’s regime. • Medal of Honor: Staff Sergeant Lafayette G. Pool, serving with 1/37th Armor during WWII, became one of the most celebrated tank commanders, credited with destroying over 250 enemy vehicles. • Modernization: The battalion has continuously upgraded its equipment, transitioning from Sherman tanks to Patton series, and now operates the advanced M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank. • Legacy and Honors: 1/37th Armor has received numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations such as the French Croix de Guerre for its distinguished service.